Israel Greenlights Ceasefire for Hostage Release
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Synopsis
On January 18, the Israeli government sanctioned a ceasefire agreement to facilitate the release of hostages held in Gaza. The decision followed a cabinet session with a majority vote in favor of the framework that includes provisions for humanitarian aid. The first phase is set to commence on Sunday.
Key Takeaways
- The Israeli cabinet approved a ceasefire deal for hostage release.
- Three Israeli women and 95 Palestinians are set for release.
- Netanyahu received assurances of US support from Trump.
- Humanitarian aid is ready to enter Gaza.
- Disputes resolved between Hamas and Israel.
Jerusalem, Jan 18 (NationPress) The Israeli government approved a ceasefire arrangement on Saturday intended for the release of hostages currently in the Gaza Strip, following an extended cabinet session, as stated by the Prime Minister's Office.
“The Government has ratified the framework for the return of the hostages. This framework will be implemented starting Sunday,” the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu communicated in a statement.
During the session, 24 ministers supported the proposal while eight opposed it. The agreement is projected to commence on Sunday, as noted in the statement.
As part of the initial phase of the agreement, three Israeli women detained in Gaza and 95 Palestinian prisoners are scheduled for release on Sunday, according to Xinhua news agency.
During the session, Netanyahu mentioned that he had received assurance from US President-elect Donald Trump that Israel would receive a halted arms supply after he assumes office, as reported by Channel 12 News.
"This is critical because if we do not advance to the second phase of the agreement, we will have additional resources to revert to combat," Netanyahu explained. "Trump is providing Israel with complete support to resume warfare if the agreement is violated."
The comprehensive cabinet meeting followed a vote by Israel's restricted security cabinet on Friday in favor of the Gaza ceasefire-for-hostage arrangement.
Far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich expressed their opposition to the agreement, insisting on a government pledge to resume military actions in Gaza after the first phase concludes, where Hamas is expected to release 33 Israeli hostages.
Disputes were settled, Hamas announced on Friday, shortly after the group confirmed its adherence to the full conditions of the agreement.
The ceasefire arrangement also incorporates provisions for humanitarian assistance to be delivered to Gaza. The Palestinian relief agency UNRWA has prepared 4,000 truckloads of humanitarian supplies, with displaced Palestinians eagerly anticipating the arrival of food, fuel, and medical supplies.
